About Surf Life Saving Giving

Surf Life Saving Giving is the national fundraising business unit of Surf Life Saving Australia. Formerly known as The Surf Life Saving Foundation.

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Supporting volunteer surf lifesavers to protect lives on Australian beaches and in our communities

Every year, millions of people visit Australia’s beaches and waterways. When conditions change and emergencies strike, volunteer surf lifesavers are there — running toward danger so others can make it home safely. Surf Life Saving Giving exists to ensure they have the training, equipment, and support they need to do that safely and effectively.

Why we exist

Australia’s coastline is one of the most loved — and one of the most dangerous — in the world. Increasing visitation, extreme weather events, and evolving rescue demands mean lifesaving services must always be ready. Our role is to provide the financial sustainability that allows Surf Life Saving Australia to plan, prepare, and respond when seconds matter.

What we do

Surf Life Saving Giving raises funds to support lifesaving patrols, volunteer training, rescue equipment, prevention programs, and innovation. Through donations, monthly giving, bequests, workplace giving, appeals, and community fundraising, we help ensure lifesaving services are available today and into the future.

Who we support

Funds raised through Surf Life Saving Giving support Surf Life Saving Australia’s national and state-based lifesaving services. This includes volunteer surf lifesavers, trainers, rescue operations, prevention and education initiatives, and programs that strengthen safety outcomes in coastal and inland communities.

Our relationship with Surf Life Saving Australia

Surf Life Saving Giving is a dedicated business unit within Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA), responsible for national fundraising and philanthropic support. Formerly operating as the Surf Life Saving Foundation (ABN 47 945 812 553), Surf Life Saving Giving now functions as SLSA’s central fundraising capability — working wholly in service of SLSA’s mission to save lives on Australian beaches and in communities.

As part of Surf Life Saving Australia, Surf Life Saving Giving operates under SLSA’s governance, leadership, and strategic direction. This ensures fundraising priorities are directly aligned with national and state lifesaving needs, and that donations are integrated into operational planning and delivery.

All funds raised through Surf Life Saving Giving directly support Surf Life Saving Australia’s lifesaving activities, including volunteer training, patrols, rescue equipment, prevention programs, and innovation. This structure provides clear accountability, strong stewardship of donations, and transparency in how funds are managed and applied.

Our commitment to supporters

Integrity

We fundraise ethically and responsibly, in line with Australian fundraising standards and regulations.

Responsible use of funds

Donations are applied to lifesaving priorities where the need and impact are greatest.

Transparency

We communicate openly about how donations are used and the difference they make.

Respect for privacy

Supporter information is protected and communication preferences are respected at all times.

Supporter respect

Every supporter is valued, and feedback, questions, and conversations are always welcome.

How your donation helps

Every gift — whether one-off, monthly, or left as a legacy — helps ensure surf lifesavers are trained, equipped, and ready. Your support funds patrols, emergency response, education, and innovation that strengthen safety across Australian beaches and communities.

Staying connected

Supporters connect with us in different ways. We share impact and stories through supporter newsletters, Guardians’ Voice for monthly donors, and Keepers’ Voice for legacy supporters. You’re always in control of how and when you hear from us.

Questions or feedback?

If you have questions about donations, fundraising practices, privacy, or communications, we encourage you to visit our FAQs or get in touch. We believe trust is built through openness and accountability.
Thank you for standing with the volunteers who protect lives every day — and for trusting Surf Life Saving Giving to steward your support with care and purpose.